U.S. patent number 10,635,260 [Application Number 12/016,278] was granted by the patent office on 2020-04-28 for system and user interface for clinical reporting and ordering provision of an item.
This patent grant is currently assigned to CERNER INNOVATION, INC.. The grantee listed for this patent is Jan DeHaan. Invention is credited to Jan DeHaan.
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United States Patent |
10,635,260 |
DeHaan |
April 28, 2020 |
**Please see images for:
( Certificate of Correction ) ** |
System and user interface for clinical reporting and ordering
provision of an item
Abstract
A user interlace system enables user selection of related
parameters identifying an order for providing an item or service.
The system employs a repository including information identifying
candidate items or services for order and associated corresponding
related order parameters in which an individual item or service for
order is associated with multiple related order parameters. A user
interface processor for, in response to user entry of order
associated data, uses the repository in providing data representing
a display image. The display image includes, an initial single
candidate order including multiple order related parameters, order
related parameter identifiers, multiple concurrently displayed
columnar image areas correspondingly associated with the multiple
order related parameters and individually incorporating multiple
user selectable values for a respective individual order related
parameter. In response to user selection of a first value for a
first order related parameter in a first columnar image area for
incorporation in the candidate order, corresponding compatible sets
of order related parameter values are presented in remaining
columnar image areas of the multiple concurrently displayed
columnar image areas. The display image enables, in response to
user command, user selection of a complete candidate order derived
by selection of displayed order related parameter values in the
concurrently displayed columnar image areas.
Inventors: |
DeHaan; Jan (Downington,
PA) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DeHaan; Jan |
Downington |
PA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
CERNER INNOVATION, INC. (Kansas
City, KS)
|
Family
ID: |
39642145 |
Appl.
No.: |
12/016,278 |
Filed: |
January 18, 2008 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20080177579 A1 |
Jul 24, 2008 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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60885927 |
Jan 22, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F
3/0482 (20130101); G06Q 50/22 (20130101); G16H
10/60 (20180101); G16H 10/20 (20180101); G06Q
50/24 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
G16H
20/00 (20180101); G06Q 50/22 (20180101); G16H
10/20 (20180101); G06F 3/0482 (20130101) |
Field of
Search: |
;705/2,3 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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Oct 1983 |
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Oct 1999 |
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EP |
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1 065 618 |
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Mar 2001 |
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EP |
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99/24927 |
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May 1999 |
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WO |
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00/03344 |
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Jan 2000 |
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WO |
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0014618 |
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Mar 2000 |
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WO |
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WO2004034179 |
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Apr 2004 |
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WO |
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Other References
Payne et al., Preparation and Use of Preconstructed Orders, Order
Sets, and Order Menus in a Computerized Provider Order Entry
System, Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association,
Aug. 2003, vol. 10, No. 4, pp. 322-329. cited by examiner .
Lovis et al., Evaluation of a Command-line Parser-based Order Entry
Pathway for the Department of Veterans Affairs Electronic Patient
Record, Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association,
Sep./Oct. 2001, vol. 8, No. 5, pp. 486-498. cited by examiner .
PCT International Search Report of Application No.
PCT/US2006/041360 dated Apr. 23, 2007. cited by applicant .
Payne TH et al.: "Preparation and use of preconstructed orders,
order sets, and order menus in a computerized provider order entry
system". Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association
2003 United States vol. 10, No. 4, 2003, pp. 322-329. cited by
applicant .
"Using Domino Workflow", www.redbooks.ibm.com International
Technical Support Organization, May 2000, pp. 149-178. cited by
applicant .
Dewan et al., "Workflow Optimization Through Task Redesign in
Business Information Process", IEEE, Jan. 6-9, 1998, pp. 240-252.
cited by applicant .
Bertino et al., "A Flexible Model Supporting the Specification and
Enforcement of Role-based Authorization in Workflow Management
Systems", ACM, Nov. 1997, pp. 1-12. cited by applicant .
Marazakis et al., "Management of Work Sessions in Dynamic Open
Environments", IEEE, Aug. 26-28, 1998, pp. 725-730. cited by
applicant .
Cugola, G., et al., "Exploiting an Event Based Infrastructure to
Develop Complex Distributed Systems", IEEE (1998). cited by
applicant .
S. Chun, et al., "Dynamic Composition of Workflows for Customized
eGovemment Service Delivery", ACM, May 2002, pp. 1-7. cited by
applicant .
J. Zhao, et al., "Temporal Workflow Management in a Claim Handling
System", ACM, Mar. 1999, pp. 187-195. cited by applicant .
Georgakapoulos et al., "An Overview of Workflow Management: From
Process Modeling to Workflow Automation Infrastructure",
Distributed and Parallel Databases, Kluwer, NL, vol. 3, No. 2, Apr.
1995, pp. 119-153. cited by applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Pauls; John A
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Shook, Hardy & Bacon,
L.L.P.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A clinical reporting and ordering system including at least one
processing device for enabling user selection of related parameters
identifying an order for providing an item or service, comprising:
a repository including information identifying candidate items for
order for treatment to be administered to a particular patient
comprising corresponding order related parameters, an individual
item or service for order comprising a plurality of order related
parameters; and one or more computer storage media storing
computer-usable instructions that, when used by the one or more
processors, cause the one or more processors to: display, in
response to user entry of order associated data, an image via a
user interface including at least an initial candidate order,
wherein the order includes a plurality of order related parameters,
and order related parameter identifiers; generate, based on the
candidate order, a plurality of substantially adjacent concurrently
displayed columnar image areas including a first columnar image
area, the plurality of substantially adjacent concurrently
displayed columnar image areas defining a column table, the column
table footprint having a fixed width, wherein each columnar image
area individually presents a corresponding different one of the
plurality of order related parameters of an order and incorporating
a plurality of user selectable values for a respective order
related parameter; shift, in response to user selection of an
element associated with the first columnar image area, shifting
displayed columnar image areas laterally, enabling a column of data
items associated with the selected element to be incorporated in
the display image; and dynamically present, in response to user
selection of a first value for a first order related parameter in a
columnar image area for incorporation in said candidate order,
corresponding compatible sets of order related parameter values in
the remaining columnar image areas of said plurality of
concurrently displayed columnar image areas enabling user selection
of a complete candidate order.
2. A system according to claim 1, wherein said columnar image areas
have respective individual column names and a rightmost column
lists column names for which columnar image areas disappeared
because of the lateral shift of the columns, said element
associated with said first columnar image area is a column name;
and said order is an order for providing medical treatment for a
patient and said related parameters identify at least three of, (a)
quantity, (b) a route of administration of a medical treatment, (c)
a frequency of administering a treatment and (d) a form of medical
treatment.
3. A system according to claim 2, wherein said first columnar image
area is a leftmost columnar image area, in response to user
selection of a column name in said first columnar image area, said
user interface processor shifts displayed columnar image areas
right; and said form of medical treatment comprises at least one
of, (a) a package type, (b) a strength of a medical treatment and
(c) a concentration of a medical treatment.
4. A system according to claim 1, wherein a columnar image area
comprises a vertical area vertically adjacent an associated order
related parameter and having a width substantially vertically
aligned and encompassing said associated order related parameter in
said initial candidate order.
5. A system according to claim 1, wherein said display image
includes as many columnar image areas correspondingly associated
with said plurality of order related parameters as substantially
fit within an available display screen image area.
6. A system according to claim 1, wherein said initial candidate
order is a portion of a complete order.
7. A system according to claim 1, wherein said initial candidate
order is a complete order.
8. A system according to claim 1, wherein said display image
includes a data item identifying an additional user selectable
order related parameter of said initial single complete candidate
order available for display together with associated selectable
values in a columnar image area and not currently displayed, said
data item identifying said additional user selectable order related
parameter being displayed adjacent to said columnar image areas;
and in response to user selection of said data item identifying
said additional user selectable order related parameter, said
display image is updated to include said additional user selectable
order related parameter and associated selectable values in a
columnar image area and to exclude a previously displayed order
related parameter and associated columnar image area.
9. A system according to claim 8, wherein said display image
includes a plurality of data items identifying additional user
selectable order related parameters of said initial complete
candidate order, available for display together with associated
selectable values in columnar image areas, and not currently
displayed, said data items identifying said additional user
selectable order related parameter being displayed in an order
corresponding to the order said additional user selectable order
related parameters occur in said initial candidate order.
10. A system according to claim 1, wherein a candidate item for
order comprises clinical documentation including documentation of a
patient problem including at least one of, (a) a treatment outcome,
(b) a patient assessment and (c) clinical findings.
11. A system according to claim 1, wherein said first columnar
image area is a rightmost columnar image area, in response to user
selection of a column name in said first columnar image area, said
user interface processor shifts displayed columnar image areas
left, a columnar image area enables a user to select a plurality of
values for a respective single individual order related parameter;
and said plurality of values for said respective individual order
related parameter are incorporated in said candidate order in a
predetermined format.
12. A system according to claim 1, wherein said corresponding
compatible sets of order related parameter values are compatible
with said parameters identifiers.
13. A system according to claim 1, wherein in response to user
selection of said first value for said first order related
parameter, said first value is incorporated in said candidate order
in predetermined position in a data field and said data field
supports user entry of text.
14. A system according to claim 1, wherein said first value may
comprise a formula.
15. A system according to claim 1, wherein said candidate order is
updated in response to at least one of, (a) a value selection in a
columnar image area and (b) user entry of a command indicating
value selection for parameters of said candidate order is
complete.
16. A system according to claim 1, wherein a columnar image area
indicates a value deemed most appropriate based on other selected
values for parameters of said candidate order.
17. A system according to claim 1, wherein said order is an order
for providing diagnostic services for a patient and said related
parameters identify at least one of, (a) test to be performed, (b)
target body site, (c) reason for the diagnostic server and (d)
urgency.
18. A method for providing a clinical reporting and ordering system
employing at least one processing device enabling user selection of
related parameters identifying an order for providing an item or
service, comprising the activities of: storing information
identifying candidate items for order for treatment to be
administered to a particular patient comprising corresponding order
related parameters, an individual item or service for order
comprising a plurality of order related parameters; displaying, in
response to user entry of order associated data, an image via a
user interface including at least an initial candidate order,
wherein the order includes a plurality of order related parameters,
and order related parameter identifiers; generating, based on the
candidate order, a plurality of substantially adjacent concurrently
displayed columnar image areas including a first columnar image
area, the plurality of substantially adjacent concurrently
displayed columnar image areas defining a column table, the column
table footprint having a fixed width, wherein each columnar image
area individually presents a corresponding different one of the
plurality of order related parameters of an order and incorporating
a plurality of user selectable values for a respective order
related parameter; shifting, in response to user selection of an
element associated with the first columnar image area, displayed
columnar image areas laterally enabling a column of data items
associated with the selected element to be incorporated in the
display image; and dynamically presenting, in response to user
selection of a first value for a first order related parameter in a
columnar image area for incorporation in said candidate order,
corresponding compatible sets of order related parameter values in
the remaining columnar image areas of said plurality of
concurrently displayed columnar image areas enabling user selection
of a complete candidate order.
Description
This is a non-provisional application of provisional application
Ser. No. 60/885,927 filed Jan. 22, 2007, by J. DeHaan.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention concerns a user interface system enabling user
selection of related parameters identifying an order for providing
an item or service by selection of displayed order related
parameter values in concurrently displayed columnar image
areas.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Known systems use a drop down list or popup lists to display
allowable values of a data field in a form, sentence or text
statement. Such a text sentence may comprise an order for an item
or service such as a medication to be administered to a patient,
for example. A user needs to open and interact with individual drop
down lists or popup lists in generating a form, sentence or text
statement. If the user wants to change a value in seven different
data fields, for example, a user needs to open seven different
allowable value selection lists and select a value from the
individual lists. These lists are typically not displayed
concurrently.
Other known systems show multiple allowable value selection lists
concurrently, but such lists are static in nature, or cover only a
limited number of data fields. Known systems require a relatively
large number of interactions with an application and therefore
involve burdensome data entry tasks and expenditure of time. A
system according to invention principles addresses these
deficiencies and associated problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A system uses a grid to display names of data fields to be valued
by a user and as many co-dependent and dynamic value lists and
values in each list as is practical depending on computer screen
size in order to minimize a number of user-computer interactions
required to complete a data entry task as well as the length and
duration of data entry tasks. A user interface system enables user
selection of related parameters identifying an order for providing
an item. The system employs a repository including information
identifying candidate items for order and associated corresponding
related order parameters in which an individual item for order is
associated with multiple related order parameters. A user interface
processor, in response to user entry of order associated data, uses
the repository in providing data representing a display image. The
display image includes, an initial single candidate order including
multiple order related parameters, order related parameter
identifiers, multiple concurrently displayed columnar image areas
correspondingly associated with the multiple order related
parameters and individually incorporating multiple user selectable
values for a respective individual order related parameter. In
response to user selection of a first value for a first order
related parameter in a first columnar image area for incorporation
in the candidate order, corresponding compatible sets of order
related parameter values are presented in remaining columnar image
areas of the multiple concurrently displayed columnar image areas.
The display image enables, in response to user command, user
selection of a complete candidate order derived by selection of
displayed order related parameter values in the concurrently
displayed columnar image areas.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
FIG. 1 shows a user interface system enabling user selection of
related parameters for identifying an order for providing an item
or service and for use in clinical documentation, according to
invention principles.
FIG. 2 shows a system overview and interaction enabling user
selection of related parameters for identifying an order for
providing an item or service and for use in clinical documentation,
according to invention principles.
FIG. 3 shows a user interface display image illustrating a data
entry selection grid, according to invention principles.
FIG. 4 shows a user interface display image illustrating an
expanded data entry selection grid, according to invention
principles.
FIG. 5 shows a user interface display image illustrating selected
data entry values in a data entry selection grid associated with a
chosen phrase, according to invention principles.
FIG. 6 shows a further user interface display image, according to
invention principles.
FIG. 7 shows a further user interface display image embodiment,
according to invention principles.
FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of a process performed by a user interface
system enabling user selection of related parameters for
identifying an order for providing an item and for use in clinical
documentation, according to invention principles.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Computerized data entry tasks often require a user to select values
of multiple data fields in a form, sentence or statement, for
example. A system according to invention principles uses a grid to
display names of data fields to be valued by a user and as many
lists of allowable values and values in each list as is practical
for a selectable size of a computer screen area. Data fields are
valued in response to selection of appropriate values in the lists.
Multiple invisible value lists may be made visible through a single
user interaction and a value list may be expanded through a single
user interaction.
The system shortens time involved in performing a data entry task
by concurrently displaying the most often used values in a single
display image, which allows the user to select the desired values
just by clicking on them or pointing to them, for example.
Non-displayed lists or non-displayed values in a list can be
brought into view with a single user interaction while still
maintaining the advantage of being to able select values in other
displayed lists. The system provides a user friendly interface for
selecting values for multiple data entry fields from multiple
co-dependent dynamic value lists with minimum user interaction.
A processor, as used herein, operates under the control of an
executable application to (a) receive information from an input
information device, (b) process the information by manipulating,
analyzing, modifying, converting and/or transmitting the
information, and/or (c) route the information to an output
information device. A processor may use, or comprise the
capabilities of, a controller or microprocessor, for example. The
processor may operate with a display processor or generator. A
display processor or generator is a known element for generating
signals representing display images or portions thereof. A
processor and a display processor may comprise a combination of,
hardware, firmware, and/or software.
An executable application, as used herein, comprises code or
machine readable instructions for conditioning the processor to
implement predetermined functions, such as those of an operating
system, a context data acquisition system or other information
processing system, for example, in response to user command or
input. An executable procedure is a segment of code or machine
readable instruction, sub-routine, or other distinct section of
code or portion of an executable application for performing one or
more particular processes. These processes may include receiving
input data and/or parameters, performing operations on received
input data and/or performing functions in response to received
input parameters, and providing resulting output data and/or
parameters. A user interface (UI), as used herein, comprises one or
more display images, generated by a display processor and enabling
user interaction with a processor or other device and associated
data acquisition and processing functions.
The UI also includes an executable procedure or executable
application. The executable procedure or executable application
conditions the display processor to generate signals representing
the UI display images. These signals are supplied to a display
device which displays the image for viewing by the user. The
executable procedure or executable application further receives
signals from user input devices, such as a keyboard, mouse, light
pen, touch screen, microphone, or any other means allowing a user
to provide data to a processor. The processor, under control of an
executable procedure or executable application, manipulates the UI
display images in response to signals received from the input
devices. In this way, the user interacts with the display image
using the input devices enabling user interaction with the
processor or other device. The functions and process steps (e.g.,
of FIG. 8) herein may be performed automatically or wholly or
partially in response to user command. An activity (including a
step) performed automatically is performed in response to
executable instruction or device operation without user direct
initiation of the activity. An object or data object comprises a
grouping of data, executable instructions or a combination of both
or an executable procedure. Further, a document, form or record
comprises a compilation of data in data fields in electronic form
and is the equivalent of a paper document and may comprise a
single, self-contained unit of information.
FIG. 1 shows a user interface system 10 enabling user selection of
related parameters for identifying an order for providing an item
or service and for use in clinical documentation. System 10
includes client devices (e.g. workstations, so called Personal
Digital Assistants, cell phones) 12 and 14, repository 17,
Healthcare Information System (HIS), Clinical Information System
(CIS) and Order entry system 51 and server 20 inter-communicating
via network 21. Server 20 includes configuration processor 25
enabling a user to determine configuration information indicating a
format of an order phrase, comprising the format of a list of
delimited selected values and whether a data field allows "free
text" data entry or is a formula, for example. Client devices 12
and 14 individually include memory 28 and user interface processor
26. User interface processor 26 provides data representing display
images for presentation on client device 12 and 14. Repository 17
includes information identifying candidate items or services for
order and associated corresponding related order parameters. An
individual item or service for order is associated with multiple
related order parameters.
User interface processor 26, in response to user entry of order
associated data, may use repository 17 and configuration processor
25 in providing data representing a display image. The display
image includes, an initial single candidate order including
multiple order related parameters, order related parameter
identifiers and multiple concurrently displayed columnar image
areas correspondingly associated with the multiple order related
parameters and individually incorporating multiple user selectable
values for a respective individual order related parameter. In
response to user selection of a first value for a first order
related parameter in a first columnar image area for incorporation
in the candidate order, corresponding compatible sets of order
related parameter values are presented in remaining columnar image
areas of the multiple concurrently displayed columnar image areas.
The display image enables, in response to user command, user
selection of a complete candidate order derived by selection of
displayed order related parameter values in the concurrently
displayed columnar image areas.
FIG. 3 shows user interface display image 303 illustrating a data
entry selection grid. Data field names and field values are
displayed as a table. The sequence of table columns corresponds to
a sequence in which the fields appear in the sentence, phrase, form
or statement to be completed (e.g., phrase 305). The first
(modality) and last (urgency, reason) visible columns 310 and 325
respectively, list data field names for which data field values
cannot be displayed at this time. Other columns list body site 313,
procedure 316, contrast 319 and timing 323. First column 310
displays names of any data fields in phrase 305 that precede a data
field for which the values list is displayed in second column 313.
Last column 325 displays the name of data fields in phrase 305 that
follow the data field for which the value list is displayed in the
second to last visible table column 323. Columns 313, 316, 319 and
323 display data field value lists for body site, procedure,
contrast and timing data fields in phrase 305.
FIG. 4 shows user interface display image 403 illustrating an
expanded data entry selection grid. If a column cannot display the
possible or relevant values for a data field, the column in one
embodiment is replaced by a larger column (e.g., column 413) or
other display area in response to a single user interaction while
other table columns remain visible. In another embodiment a column
is scrolled. If phrase 305 contains words or symbols in addition to
data field values, phrase 305 may be displayed in addition to the
table display.
FIG. 5 shows user interface display image 503 illustrating selected
data entry values in a data entry selection grid associated with a
chosen phrase. Current data field values of phrase 305 are
displayed in special row 505 in a table, and/or they are identified
in value lists in the table columns as items 507, 509 and 513, for
example. Current data field values of phrase 305 may also be
individually identified in phrase 305 by field delimiters, for
example (not shown to preserve drawing clarity). Similarly,
original data field values (prior to the current data field values)
may be indicated in a special row in the table, and/or they may be
identified in value lists in the table columns or be individually
identified in phrase 305 by field delimiters, for example (not
shown to preserve drawing clarity). In one embodiment, the table is
displayed at the bottom of a display image and occupies
substantially the width of the image. The height of the table is as
large as desired without obscuring relevant context information
comprising information likely to be addressed by a user following
selecting values of data fields in phrase 305.
In one embodiment, in response to a user selecting phrase 305, the
value list table associated with phrase 305 is displayed. The lists
of values of the data fields closest to a current cursor position
in phrase 305 are visible. A user selects a new value for a data
field just by selecting (e.g., clicking on) a desired value in a
table. If a values list is not visible, the user selects a data
field name in the first or last visible columns (e.g., columns 510,
525). If the user selected a data field name in first column 510
(if there are any in column 510), the data field names in visible
columns 507, 509, 511 and 513 and the corresponding columns
themselves shift to the right such that a selected data field and
its associated column of data values is incorporated in the table.
The remaining data field names in first column 510 represent data
fields for which value lists are still not visible. The rightmost
column 525 now lists data field names for which data field value
lists in associated columns disappeared because of the right shift
of the columns.
FIG. 6 shows further user interface display image 603 including a
data entry and selection grid including columns of lists of data
values. The values in the lists in the columns may be co-dependent.
That is, selected values in one or more lists and associated
columns may determine which values are included in other lists.
System 10 employs different processes to indicate which values are
presented in a current context indicating a previous selected data
field value or values. An irrelevant value list may be hidden and
replaced by a more relevant displayed value list. Irrelevant values
may remain visible, but are differentiated from relevant values in
a list by display attributes such as font attributes like size,
color, (non-) bolding, strike-through decoration, shading etc.,
differences in background color and texture, or through other
special markings. Irrelevant values may be hidden from view as
necessary to make room for values that are relevant in a current
context, in response to user selection or entry of a new data
value.
A data field may allow entry of free text, that is, a value that is
not in the value list. In one embodiment, a cell underneath a data
field name (which is displayed in the top row of a table), allows
the user to enter text. Optionally the text may be constrained
based on data type, e.g., the text may need to comprise a date or
number, or range, a future date, or a positive integer. In
addition, system 10 (FIG. 1) detects if a value entered by a user
is already in a value list in a table and marks the corresponding
value in the list as selected. Data fields may contain multiple
values and a user may select multiple values in a list or enter
multiple values as "free text" using an appropriate value delimiter
such as a comma, semicolon, space character, etc. Value lists may
advantageously be brought into view by clicking on a data field
name in first or last visible columns 610 and 625 of display image
603. This allows a user to select a new value for that data field
and if the new value requires different choices for data values in
other data fields, those data fields are likely to be close to a
changed data field and therefore their value lists will
advantageously still be in view. Thereby, a phrase is updated by
user selection of new values from lists that require no user
interaction to make relevant value lists visible. Further, the
number of visible value lists are maximized within the constraint
of available display image space, while the content of individual
visible value lists adapt to values selected by a user.
FIG. 7 shows further user interface display image 703. In this
embodiment, the names of the different data fields in phrase 305
are incorporated in a single column and data fields having visible
value lists in a table are identified in the single column (e.g.,
by different background color, different text color, check marks,
etc). A different set of data fields with associated visible value
lists may be selected through scrolling data field names in the
single column, selecting (e.g., by dragging) data field names (like
dragging the names encompassed by white background 730 in column
710 of FIG. 7), or selection of a data field or data fields. In
response to the selection of the data fields, their associated
value lists are displayed. In another embodiment, data field names
are placed above currently selected data field values in phrase
305. The data fields for which value lists are visible are
indicated through different backgrounds, font colors, icons, or
other visual attributes. The system is of particular use for
clinical order entry and clinical documentation.
System 10 (FIG. 1) is applicable for creation of any order, such
as, for a medication to be administered to a patient or for
preparation of clinical documentation, for example, which includes
documentation of patient problems, outcomes (clinical goals),
assessments and findings. The system is applicable for creation of
phrase 305 (FIG. 3) for a wide variety of purposes by concatenating
values of one or more data fields (parameters). An individual data
field has one or more allowable values and a blank value is an
allowable value. A user may select more than one value for a single
parameter. In that case system 10 inserts them into phrase 305 in a
format in accordance with user predetermined configuration
information. The format may comprise a list of (e.g., comma)
delimited selected values. The last delimiter may be replaced by a
word like "and" or "or", for example. A user may pre-configure
delimiters to be used. The parameters that allow for multiple
selections and the default delimiters for a multi-value parameter
are preconfigured in system 10 (for example in a knowledge base,
master file, profile, or in executable program code) using
configuration processor 25.
In response to user value selection, system 10 provides data field
values in different columnar sets that are compatible and are
compatible with data field identifiers. The selected parameter
values may be displayed in a fixed position in each column, for
example, in a first row underneath a column header (data field
names). That same area (cell) may be used by a user to add values
not found in a data field column. Whether a parameter allows for
such "free text" data entry is preconfigured in system 10 (for
example in a knowledge base, master file, profile, or in the
program code) using configuration processor 25. A user may select
or enter a formula as a data field value. Phrase 305 displayed
above a columnar display may indicate an original phrase prior to
modification. System 10 updates phrase 305 in response to a user
indicating that value selection/data entry is complete for the
phrase. Alternatively, system 10 may update phrase 305 (e.g., an
order for medication to be administered to a patient) displayed
above a columnar value list by user selection or entry of new
values. If some data field values are not visible, a user has the
option to increase the size of the column to display more values.
The column reverts to its original size in response to user
selection of a table element outside of the column. In response to
user input, system 10 updates a displayed data table to reflect
compatible data field values and compatible data field values.
System 10 may also indicate in addition to a currently selected
value, the value that is most appropriate. This allows a user to
more easily find the most appropriate value.
In operation of system 10, phrase 305 comprises patient care
statements (stated goals (desired outcomes) of clinical care) such
as "stage 4 pressure ulcer to improve to less than full thickness
and length/width to _.times._ cm in the next 90 days" or "Will
maintain SBP>10 and <170, DBP>50 and <100, Pulse>60
and <10". These examples show parts of a phrase that a user may
change using the system for clinical documentation and reporting
based on individual patient circumstances. For example, a user may
want to change a cancer stage number, the length/width and the time
period in the first example and the specific systolic and diastolic
blood pressure levels to be maintained in the second example.
Another example concerns clinical findings regarding pain levels,
which include factors like severity, onset (sudden, constant),
frequency, duration, character (dull, sharp, etc.) and anatomical
body site. These factors have a list of allowable values. In a
further example, phrase 305 comprises "Patient reports severe head
pain. Pain occurs 3 to 4 times per day, has a sudden onset and
generally subsides after about 15 minutes" and individual parts of
the phrase may be varied by selecting another value of a list of
allowable or suggested values.
FIG. 2 shows a system overview and interaction enabling user
selection of related parameters for identifying an order for
providing an item and for use in clinical documentation.
Specifically, FIG. 2 is described in the exemplary context of a
clinical order entry (and reporting) system. User 100 such as a
doctor or other clinician uses user interface processor 26 in
conjunction with system 51 to enter an order for administering
medication to patient 120 into order entry system 121. Order entry
system 121 (in unit 51 FIG. 1) communicates data representing the
entered order to order processing system 113 which validates the
order and distributes it to ancillary departmental systems 117. A
healthcare worker uses departmental systems 117 to view the order
to determine what diagnostic or therapeutic services to render to
patient 120. Order data modification data and order status
information are communicated by departmental systems 117 to
Clinical Information system 107 (in unit 51 FIG. 1). Order entry
system 121 retrieves data from Clinical Information System 107,
Knowledge Base Server 109 in repository 17 and Patient Registration
System 103 and uses the retrieved data and user entered commands
and data to determine a candidate order phrase to display to the
user for selection. For this purpose, order entry system 121 with
user interface processor 26, determines order parameters (data
fields) to incorporate in the candidate order phrase as well as
content of value lists for parameters. In other embodiments order
processing system 113 and other units of FIG. 2 may be incorporated
in unit 51, user interface processor 26, server 20 or repository 17
(FIG. 1).
FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of a process performed by a user interface
system 10 (FIG. 1) enabling user selection of related parameters
for identifying an order for providing an item or for use in
clinical documentation, for reporting and other purposes. In step
802 following the start at step 801, system 10 stores data in
repository 17 including information identifying clinical phrases
and associated corresponding related parameters in which an
individual clinical phrase is associated with multiple related
parameters. An order comprises an order for providing medical
treatment for a patient and the related parameters identify at
least one of, (a) quantity, (b) a route of administration of a
medical treatment, (c) a frequency of administering a treatment and
(d) a form of medical treatment. The form of medical treatment
comprises one or more of, a package type a strength of a medical
treatment and a concentration of a medical treatment.
In step 807, user interface processor 26, in response to user entry
of clinical data, uses repository 17 and/or configuration processor
25 in providing data representing a display image. The display
image includes, an initial candidate clinical phrase (order)
including multiple candidate order related parameters, clinical
phrase related parameter identifiers and multiple concurrently
displayed columnar image areas correspondingly associated with
multiple clinical phrase related parameters and individually
incorporating multiple user selectable values for a respective
individual phrase related parameter. The multiple values for the
respective single individual order related parameter are
incorporated in the candidate order in a predetermined format.
Further, the initial single candidate order is a complete order or
a portion of a complete order. The candidate order is updated in
response to a value selection in a columnar image area or user
entry of a command indicating value selection for parameters of the
candidate order is complete.
A candidate item for order may comprise clinical documentation
including documentation of a patient problem such as, a treatment
outcome, a patient assessment and clinical findings. In response to
user selection of a first value for a first clinical phrase (order)
related parameter in a first columnar image area for incorporation
in the candidate clinical phrase, corresponding compatible sets of
clinical phrase related parameter values are presented in remaining
columnar image areas of the multiple concurrently displayed
columnar image areas. The corresponding compatible sets of order
related parameter values are compatible with the parameters
identifiers. In response to user selection of a first value (which
may comprise a formula, for example) for a first order related
parameter, the first value is incorporated in the candidate order
in predetermined position in a data field and the data field
supports user entry of text.
A columnar image area comprises a vertical area vertically adjacent
an associated order related parameter and having a width
substantially vertically aligned and encompassing the associated
order related parameter in the initial single candidate order. The
display image includes as many columnar image areas correspondingly
associated with the multiple order related parameters as
substantially fit within an available display screen image area. In
one embodiment, a columnar image area indicates a value deemed most
appropriate based on other selected values for parameters of the
candidate order and enables a user to select multiple values for a
respective single individual order related parameter. The display
image enables, in response to user command, user selection of a
complete candidate clinical phrase derived by selection of
displayed clinical phrase related parameter values in the
concurrently displayed columnar image areas.
The display image includes a data item identifying an additional
user selectable order related parameter of the initial single
complete candidate order available for display together with
associated selectable values in a columnar image area and not
currently displayed. The data item identifies the additional user
selectable order related parameters being displayed adjacent to the
columnar image areas. In response to user selection of the data
item identifying the additional user selectable order related
parameter, the display image is updated to include the additional
user selectable order related parameter and associated selectable
values in a columnar image area and to exclude a previously
displayed order related parameter and associated columnar image
area. The display image also includes multiple data items
identifying additional user selectable order related parameters of
the initial single complete candidate order, available for display
together with associated selectable values in columnar image areas,
and not currently displayed. The data items identifying the
additional user selectable order related parameter are displayed in
an order corresponding to the order in which the additional user
selectable order related parameters occur in the initial single
candidate order. The process of FIG. 8 terminates at step 821.
The systems and processes of FIGS. 1-8 are not exclusive. Other
systems, processes and menus may be derived in accordance with the
principles of the invention to accomplish the same objectives.
Although this invention has been described with reference to
particular embodiments, it is to be understood that the embodiments
and variations shown and described herein are for illustration
purposes only. Modifications to the current design may be
implemented by those skilled in the art, without departing from the
scope of the invention. The system supports user generation of a
phrase from data fields using a table (or grid) to display names of
data fields to be valued by a user and lists of allowable values
and values in each list, selectable by a user. The processes and
applications may in alternative embodiments, be located on one or
more (e.g., distributed) processing devices accessing a network
linking the elements of FIG. 1. Further, any of the functions and
steps provided in FIGS. 1-8 may be implemented in hardware,
software or a combination of both and may reside on one or more
processing devices located at any location of a network linking the
elements of FIG. 1 or another linked network including the
Internet.
* * * * *
References